Seller's Guide

The 5 biggest mistakes smart people make when selling a home.


#1 Basing your asking price on needs or emotion rather than market value.

Many times, people make their pricing decisions based on how much they paid or invested into their home. This can be an expensive mistake. Overpriced homes take longer to sell and eventually net the seller less money. Consult with a professional real estate agent. They can assist you in pricing your home correctly for the beginning.

#2 Failing to "showcase" your home.

First impressions are the most important. Experience shows that for every $100 in repairs that your home needs, a buyer will deduct $300-$500 from their offer. Thoroughly clean and prepare your home before you put it on the market

#3 Signing a listing contract with no way out.

Most traditional real estate agents want you to sign a listing contract with no way out. When you list your home with me, you can cancel your listing agreement at any time, no questions asked.

#4 Choosing the wrong agent or choosing them for the wrong reasons.

Many homeowners list their home with the agent who works for the biggest company. You need to choose the agent with the best marketing plan and track record to sell your home.

#5 Not knowing all of your legal rights and obligations.

Real estate law is complex. The contract that you will sign when selling your home is legally binding. Small items that are neglected in a contract can wind up costing you thousands of dollars. You need to consult a knowledgeable professional who understands the in's and out's of a real estate transaction.

The seller can generally be expected to pay for:

  • title insurance premium & escrow fee
  • real estate commission
  • documentary transfer tax ($1.10 per $1000.00 of sales price)
  • any city transfer or conveyance tax
  • any loan fees required by buyer's lender
  • payoff all loans in seller's name (or existing loan balance if being assumed by buyer)
  • interest accrued to lender being paid off, statement fees, re conveyance fees and prepayment penalties
  • termite inspection (according to contract)
  • termite work (according to contract)
  • home warranty (according to contract)
  • any judgment's, tax lines, etc., against the seller
  • tax pro ration (for any taxes unpaid at time of transfer of title)
  • any unpaid homeowner's dues
  • recording changes to clear all documents of record against seller
  • any bonds or assessments (according to contract)
  • any and all delinquent taxes
  • notary fees

The distinction between personal property and real property can be the source of difficulties in a real estate transaction. The purchase contract is normally written to include all real property; that is, all aspects of the property that are fastened down or an integral part of the structure. For example, this would include light fixtures, drapery rods, attached mirrors, trees and shrubs in the ground. It would not include potted plants, freestanding refrigerators, washers and dryers, microwaves, book cases, swag lamps, etc. If there is any uncertainty weather an item is includes in the sale or not, it is best to be sure that the particular item is mentioned in the purchased contract as being included or excluded.

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Whether you are looking to Sell your house, Buy a home, or Buy investment property,
I am here to assist you in making the right choice, protect your interest and help you get the best value.